About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking multiple Transportation Engineer Interns in Tumwater, WA. Opportunities are available in three specialized areas within the State Materials Laboratory:

• Specialty Services Testing (Chemistry Laboratory and Electrical Laboratory): Perform entry-level materials testing to support statewide construction projects, working with materials such as cement, sealants, coatings, and galvanized products using AASHTO, ASTM, and WSDOT standards.
• Structural Materials Testing: Conduct laboratory testing to evaluate material quality through testing of aggregates, soils, steel, and concrete for highway construction, assist with equipment calibration, accreditation processes, and support daily lab operations.
• Bituminous Mixtures: Support testing of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) and other bituminous materials, learning industry standards and procedures while calibrating equipment and recording test data under close supervision.

These positions provide hands-on experience with industry-standard testing methods while supporting critical transportation infrastructure projects across Washington State.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineering Interns will:

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of fundamental engineering principles, typically gained through completion of coursework in an accredited engineering program or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Materials Testing & Standards Application: Ability to perform materials testing in accordance with established standards and procedures (e.g., AASHTO, ASTM, or agency-specific protocols), ensuring accuracy and consistency of results.
• Physical Capability & Equipment Handling: Ability to safely perform physically demanding tasks, including moving/relocating materials (up to 40–50 pounds with assistance), operating equipment, and loading/unloading materials in a laboratory or field setting.
• Laboratory Safety & Chemical Handling: Demonstrated ability to work safely with a variety of chemicals and high-temperature materials in a laboratory environment, following established safety protocols and procedures.
• Equipment Maintenance & Calibration: Ability to maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot basic laboratory testing equipment, as well as support routine maintenance and lab housekeeping activities.
• Technical Instrumentation Interpretation: Ability to accurately read and interpret thermometric devices, gauges, and other laboratory instrumentation to support testing and data collection.
• Work Endurance & Environmental Adaptability: Ability to work effectively in a laboratory setting that requires standing for extended periods and adapting to varying physical and environmental conditions.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with diverse audiences including team members, supervisors, and technical staff.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Transportation Engineering Intern #05571 in the subject line.